Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Lakes, ponds and streams are an integral part of the character of the Highlands landscape. Overbuilt, damaged and poorly managed shoreland and riparian areas can result in the degradation of water quality, harm to the related ecosystem, the decrease of natural aesthetic values, and the overall loss of property values for the surrounding communities.

The Highlands Council provides guidance and grant funding to support healthy lakes and streams. Although materials below are intended primarily for use by municipalities within the Highlands Region, the principles, strategies and methods outlined within are applicable to any municipality and may be of interest to other stakeholders.

• Lake Management Guidance (pdf)
• Stream Corridor Guidance Part 1: Functional Value Assessment Methodology (pdf)
• Stream Corridor Guidance Part 2: Protection and Restoration Planning (pdf)